Did you know dementia is now the leading cause of death in Australia? It’s a confronting fact — but there’s good news. While we can’t change our genetics, research shows that our lifestyle choices, particularly exercise, can play a powerful role in reducing dementia risk.
The Link Between Exercise and Brain Health
A recent study by the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre found that people who engage in vigorous exercise — such as running, swimming, or resistance training — have lower levels of a dementia-linked protein in their blood.
This protein is associated with brain inflammation, a key factor in the development of dementia. By lowering it, exercise helps to protect the brain, improve overall function, and reduce long-term risk.
What Kind of Exercise Works Best?
The takeaway is simple: the more you move, the more you protect your brain.
- Aim for activities that get you puffing and sweating, whether that’s a jog around the block, a fast-paced swim, or a challenging resistance training session.
- Combine strength training, cardio, and fun movement you genuinely enjoy, so it becomes a consistent part of your lifestyle.
Why Start Now?
We can’t rewrite our DNA, but we can reshape our daily habits. Exercise is a gift to your future self — boosting not just your strength, heart health, and mood, but also your long-term brain health. Every workout is an investment in a sharper, healthier mind for years to come.
Start today. Your future brain will thank you.
Read more about the research here: ABC News – How Exercise Can Protect the Brain